Deebo Samuel Injury Update: Will the Commanders WR Play vs Dallas Cowboys Tonight?

Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel will not play in the team’s Week 7 clash against the Dallas Cowboys, the team confirmed ahead of Sunday’s kickoff. The star pass-catcher has been sidelined by a lingering heel injury that kept him limited all week in practice and ultimately forced him out of one of the season’s most crucial NFC matchups.

The news is a significant setback for Washington’s offense as they look to stay competitive in a tightly contested NFC East. Samuel was initially listed as questionable, but the Commanders ruled him out on Saturday after he failed to show enough progress in final practice sessions. His absence leaves the receiving corps thin and forces the team to rework its offensive strategy heading into Sunday night.

Deebo Samuel Officially Ruled Out Due to Heel Injury

Deebo Samuel has been battling a heel injury that limited his participation throughout the week. According to reports from Reuters and other outlets, Samuel did not participate in full practices and was seen doing only light individual drills on Friday. Head coach Ron Rivera and the medical staff decided it was best to rest him to avoid aggravating the injury further.

The Commanders’ receiver depth will be tested. Along with Samuel, star wideout Terry McLaurin is also sidelined with a quad injury, and Noah Brown remains on injured reserve. This leaves quarterback Sam Howell without two of his primary weapons. As a result, Washington is expected to lean more heavily on backup receivers Chris Moore, Luke McCaffrey, and rookie Jaylin Lane, who will see increased snaps and targets in Samuel’s absence.

Samuel’s absence is particularly impactful considering his importance to the Commanders’ passing game. He has been one of the team’s most dynamic playmakers this season, contributing significant yards after the catch and providing versatility in both receiving and rushing roles. Without him, Washington will likely turn to a more run-heavy offense and feature tight ends more prominently in their game plan.

How Samuel’s Absence Shapes the Game Plan

The Cowboys’ defense, which has been among the best in the league at limiting explosive plays, will benefit from not having to account for Samuel’s big-play potential. This allows them to focus more on stopping Washington’s ground game and containing Howell in the pocket. For the Commanders, the challenge will be finding ways to move the ball without one of their most versatile offensive weapons.

Analysts expect offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to rely more heavily on running back Brian Robinson Jr. and use short, quick passing plays to compensate for the lack of deep-threat receivers. Luke McCaffrey, known for his route-running precision, may become a key target in third-down situations, while Jaylin Lane could see an expanded role as a vertical threat.

Washington enters this matchup needing a win to keep pace in the NFC East. Playing without Samuel raises the difficulty, but it also provides an opportunity for younger players to step up and make an impact. Whether they can capitalize remains to be seen, but the offensive adjustments will be critical if the Commanders hope to upset Dallas on the road.

In short: Deebo Samuel will not suit up tonight against the Dallas Cowboys due to a heel injury. His absence is a major blow to the Commanders’ offense, and the team’s depth at wide receiver will be tested as they attempt to pull off a crucial divisional win.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Deebo Samuel not playing tonight?

He is sidelined due to a heel injury that limited his practice participation all week. The Commanders ruled him out on Saturday after he failed to make sufficient progress.

Q2: When will Deebo Samuel return?

There is currently no official return timeline. His availability will depend on how the heel injury responds to rest and treatment in the coming days.

Q3: Who will replace Deebo Samuel against the Cowboys?

Receivers Chris Moore, Luke McCaffrey, and rookie Jaylin Lane are expected to take on larger roles in his absence.

Q4: How does this affect Washington’s offense?

The Commanders will likely shift to a more run-focused attack and utilize tight ends more often, while also relying on shorter passing plays.

Q5: What time is the Commanders vs. Cowboys game?

The Week 7 matchup kicks off Sunday night at 8:20 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.